Prospect Breakdown: Would Calijah Kancey Put Bengals' Defense Over the Top?

Kancey is one of the top defensive tackles in the 2023 NFL Draft.

Blake Jewell | Apr 14, 2023

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Cincinnati Bengals

The Bengals could use another interior pass rusher, and this draft class offers several good options. Pittsburgh star Calijah Kancey could be a home run pick if he falls to the Bengals in round one.

Kancey has been placed anywhere from pick 15 to the early second round in mock drafts, so while it’s uncertain the Bengals will even have the option to select him, he’s someone to keep on your radar.

He racked up 7.5 sacks and 14.5 tackles for loss last season, winning ACC Defensive Player of the Year. He was also an All-American. He’s a true pass rusher and brings a lot of exciting traits to the table.

Measurables:

Height: 6’1”

Weight: 281 lbs

Arm Length: 30 5/8”

40 yard dash: 4.67

Strengths:

Kancey is an explosive pass rusher and has the production to back it up. He’s quick and agile, which allows him to use multiple moves when rushing the passer. He could fit very well in the Bengals' defensive line room, bringing dangerous pass rushing abilities next to a star nose tackle and run stopper DJ Reader.

Teams might pass on him due to size and length, but he makes up for it in a lot of ways with speed, quickness and strength. He’s technically sound and should make an instant impact in the NFL.

Weaknesses:

As mentioned, size and length are his weaknesses, and they might be the only big ones. He’s effective in every area, but he would be one of the smallest defensive tackles in the league. He has the traits to be an outlier, but there is some risk involved.

Summary:

Kancey could bring the Bengals much needed help on their defensive line. He’s an explosive and effective pass rusher and his numbers in college prove he’s able to overcome his deficiencies.

The biggest question marks with Kancey are if he’ll be on the board when the Bengals pick, and if they’d take him in the first place. They could address other positions in round one, including right tackle, tight end, running back and cornerback.

While they also could use interior pass rushers, they might use that first pick to select a player at one of those positions instead of going for the undersized option like Kancey.

Overall, Kancey would be a great pick for the Bengals at 28, and he’s someone to monitor as we get closer to the 2023 NFL Draft.

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